Staring at a wall of paint swatches, you’ve finally chosen the perfect colour, but now you’re faced with an equally daunting decision: which finish will bring your vision to life while standing up to the demands of daily life?
Whether you’re painting your home or business premises, there are five main paint finish options to choose from, with each offering its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s easy to feel confused.
Ranging from flat to high-gloss, the options are many, so the team at Women At Work Painters, understands the importance of choosing the right paint finish for your painting project.
With over 20 years of experience painting residential and commercial properties throughout Melbourne, we’ve seen first-hand how the right finish can transform a space. So, let’s not gloss over the facts. Below we’ll have a closer look into the world of paint finishes and help make your decision a little easier.
Understanding Paint Finishes
Paint finish, also known as sheen, refers to how much light reflects off a painted surface once it’s dry. The higher the sheen, the more light it reflects, resulting in a shinier appearance. But it’s not just about looks – different finishes also affect durability, ease of cleaning and how well they hide imperfections.
The Paint Finish Spectrum
Let’s explore the five main types of paint finishes, from least to most reflective:
| Finish | Characteristics | Best for | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flat/Matte | – Least reflective finish – Velvety, smooth appearance – Excellent at hiding surface imperfections | – Low-traffic areas – Ceilings – Bedrooms – Living rooms | – Hides wall imperfections – Non-reflective, soft look – Easiest to touch up | – Least durable finish – Difficult to clean without damaging paint |
| Eggshell | – Slight sheen, similar to an eggshell – More durable than flat/matte | – Living rooms – Dining rooms | – More washable than flat finishes – Hides wall imperfections – Provides a warm, pearl-like glow | – Less durable than higher-sheen finishes – Tricky to touch up |
| Satin | – Pearl-like finish – More reflective than eggshell | – Family rooms – Children’s bedrooms – Kitchens – Bathrooms – Laundry rooms | – Easy to clean – Good durability – Resistant to mildew and fading | – Shows application flaws – Noticeable touch-ups |
| Semi-Gloss | – Visibly shiny finish – Reflects significant light | – Trim – Doors – Cabinets – Kitchens | – Very durable – Easy to clean – Moisture resistant – Stands up to multiple cleanings | – Shows surface imperfections – Too shiny for some interior walls |
| High-Gloss | – Highest shine and reflection – Mirror-like finish | – Trim – Door frames – Architectural details | – Extremely durable – Easy to clean – Brilliant, shiny look | – Shows every imperfection – Overpowering on large surfaces |
Choosing the Right Finish for Your Space
Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s look at how to choose the right finish for different areas of your home or business:
Living Areas and Bedrooms
For these spaces, we often recommend eggshell or satin finishes. They provide a subtle sheen that’s easy on the eyes and offers decent cleanability. If you’re after a more modern, matte look, a flat finish can work well in adult bedrooms or formal living rooms with less traffic and feet on the walls.
Kitchens and Bathrooms
These high-moisture, high-traffic areas benefit from more durable finishes. Satin or semi-gloss are excellent choices as they resist moisture and are easy to clean. For kitchen cabinets, a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish can create a sleek, polished look.
Hallways and Kids’ Rooms
These high-traffic areas need a durable, easy-to-clean finish. Satin is often the perfect compromise between durability and aesthetic appeal. It’s tough enough to withstand some bumps and scrapes but doesn’t have an overpowering shine.
Ceilings
Flat or matte finishes are typically best for ceilings. They hide imperfections and reduce glare from lighting fixtures.
Trim, Doors and Windows
Semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes are ideal for these areas. They’re durable, easy to clean and provide a nice contrast to walls with lower-sheen finishes.
Speciality Finishes: Mould Resistant and Cleanable Paints
When it comes to mould-resistant and highly cleanable paints, these properties can be found across various sheen levels, but they’re most commonly associated with higher-sheen finishes.
Mould Resistant Paints
Mould resistant paints contain additives that inhibit mould growth, making them ideal for high-humidity areas.
Best for:
- bathrooms
- laundry rooms
- basements
Sheen levels: Most commonly available in satin, semi-gloss and gloss finishes, as these are already more resistant to moisture.
Pros:
- inhibits mould and mildew growth
- often includes other benefits like stain resistance.
Cons:
- can be more expensive than standard paints
- limited colour options compared to regular paints.
Highly Cleanable Paints
These paints are formulated to withstand frequent cleaning without wearing away or losing colour. If you have young kids or dogs with waggy tails, this can be a great option.
Best for:
- high-traffic areas
- children’s rooms
- hallways
Sheen levels: Available in various sheens, but most effective in satin, semi-gloss and gloss finishes.
Pros:
- resistant to staining
- can be cleaned repeatedly without damaging the finish
- often scuff-resistant.
Cons:
- may have a higher sheen than desired for some spaces
- generally more expensive than standard paints.
It’s worth noting that many modern paints, especially those in higher sheen levels (satin and above), offer good mould resistance and cleanability as standard features. However, for areas prone to mould or heavy wear, choosing a paint specifically formulated for these issues can provide extra protection and longevity.
The team at Women At Work Painters can help you determine whether these speciality paints are necessary for your project, ensuring you get the best combination of aesthetics and functionality.
Other Considerations
Colour and Finish Interaction
Remember that sheen can affect how a colour appears. Higher-sheen finishes can make a colour appear brighter or more intense, while flat finishes can make a colour look slightly muted.
Lighting
Consider the lighting in your space when choosing a finish. Rooms with lots of natural light might benefit from lower-sheen finishes to reduce glare, while rooms with less light might look better with higher-sheen finishes that reflect more light.
Surface Imperfections
If you’re painting an older wall with imperfections, a lower-sheen finish like flat or eggshell will help hide these flaws. Higher-sheen finishes tend to highlight bumps, cracks and other imperfections.
The Women At Work Painters Approach
At Women At Work Painters, we understand that choosing the right paint finish is crucial to achieving the look and durability you want. Here’s how we approach paint finish selection:
- Assess the space: We consider the room’s function, lighting and existing decor.
- Discuss your preferences: We talk with you about your style preferences and maintenance expectations.
- Consider durability needs: We factor in how much wear and tear the surface will endure.
- Sample and test: We often apply sample patches of different finishes to help you visualise the final result.
- Professional application: Our experienced team ensures a flawless application, regardless of the finish chosen.
Paint Finish FAQs
Q: Can I use different finishes in the same room?
A: Absolutely! In fact, using different finishes can add depth and interest to a space. For example, you might use an eggshell finish on the walls and a semi-gloss on the trim.
Q: How do I clean walls with different finishes?
A: For all finishes, start with the gentlest cleaning method first – usually warm water and a soft cloth. For higher-sheen finishes, you can use a mild soap if needed. Always test in an inconspicuous area first.
Q: Can I change the finish of my walls without repainting?
A: Unfortunately, you can’t change the sheen without repainting. However, there are clear topcoats available that can add sheen to a flat finish.
Q: Are there eco-friendly options for different paint finishes?
A: Yes! Many paint manufacturers now offer low-VOC or zero-VOC options in a variety of finishes. At Women At Work Painters, we’re happy to recommend environmentally friendly options.
The Final Stroke
Choosing the right paint finish is a crucial step in any painting project. It affects not only the look of your space but also its durability and maintenance requirements. At Women At Work Painters, we’re committed to helping you make the best choice for your specific needs.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to paint finishes. What works beautifully in one space might not be the best choice for another. That’s why we’re here to offer our expertise and guide you through the process.
With our 20+ years of experience, multiple Master Painters Awards for Excellence and Word of Mouth Service Awards, you can trust Women At Work Painters to deliver outstanding results, regardless of the finish you choose. We’re dedicated to leaving you happy and satisfied with your newly painted space.
Ready to transform your home or business with the perfect paint finish?
Contact Women At Work Painters today on 1300 200 700 for a free quote. Let’s work together to bring your vision to life!
